LAWRENCEVILLE - Work on a major roadway project that connects Pennsylvania and New York is now under way, but the project's completion may be delayed.
It's considered the missing link in a major interstate system. The Route 15 future Interstate 99 project south of Corning is expected to have a large impact on bringing vitality to the Twin Tiers.
“The first mile at the border into New York is completed. We did that to meet Pennsylvania's update at Lawrenceville so that is completed. We're completing the last five miles,” says Peter White, New York State Department of Transportation.
Drainage, utility, and pavement work on a five mile stretch from Presho south to the Watson Creek Road is underway.
Officials say it will cost $40 million of state funds that are already secured. They hope to have this work completed by the end of 2011. After that, the state will need to build bridges, stripe the road, and add signage. But that work doesn't not appear to be as promising because of New York State’s budget crisis.
“We have a plan to deliver this, but the final figures are not in place,” says White.
Neighbors would like the project completed as soon as possible.
“There will probably be a delay due to the financial crisis, but they'll eventually get it,” says Lou Smith from Corning.
“That would be the most unfortunate because it would delay traffic and it would also delay the increased ability for jobs,” says Ray Adams from Lawrenceville.
Work on the Route 17 project between Elmira and Lowman will go up for bids next month.
New York State Department of Transportation officials say it’s the last major portion that needs to be upgraded to interstate standards within our region.
Transportation officials say bids on this six and a half mile extension will begin on November 19th.
Buildings, like the Red Jacket Motel and Fountain Motel, will be demolished to bring the road up to upgrade the road.
Officials say work, which will include new pavement, signs, and a wider median, will likely begin sometime in January.
Transportation officials say the project will cost $70 million and is state funded. They hope it will be completed by 2012.
